Regulations for E-Bikes on the Wood River Trail and Public Lands
The regulations governing e-bike usage on the Wood River Trail (WRT) are established by ordinances at both city and county levels. The cities of Hailey, Ketchum, and Sun Valley, along with Blaine County, have all passed ordinances related to e-bikes.
As for e-bike regulations on public lands trails, they are set by the United States Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Please find the specific ordinances and regulations for e-bike usage on the Wood River Trail and public lands by following the links provided.
E-bike Usage and Safety on the Wood River Trail
E-bike usage and safety on the Wood River Trail are important concerns for everyone who enjoys this multi-use community space. This section provides guidance on what to do if you encounter dangerous e-bike behavior and outlines the role of the BCRD in promoting responsible e-bike use. By working together and following established guidelines, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.
I saw someone riding an e-bike too fast or dangerously on the Wood River Trail. What should I do?
If you witness someone riding an e-bike dangerously or too fast on the Wood River Trail, keep in mind that the enforcement of city and county ordinances falls under law enforcement jurisdiction. Please report the incident to Blaine County Dispatch at (208) 578-3831.
What is BCRD’s role in relation to e-bikes on the Wood River Trail?
Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) neither sets nor enforces policies on the Wood River Trail. However, we encourage all users to adhere to the following etiquette tips for a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Maintain a reasonable speed
- Keep right, except when passing
- Give advance notice before passing, either with your voice or a bell
- Stay aware and respectful of other users at all times; the Wood River Trail is a multi-use community trail where everyone should feel safe and welcome, regardless of their mode of allowable transportation
Does BCRD have an official statement on e-bike usage on the Wood River Trail?
In 2018, the Blaine County Recreation District Board of Directors passed a resolution regarding e-bike use. The resolution highlights the following points:
- There is a clear need for consistency in statutory language, signage, enforcement, education, and ongoing management of all usage, including e-bikes and other vehicles, across the jurisdictions that govern and comprise the 35+ miles of multi-use pathways in Blaine County.
- BCRD supports the use of e-bikes with electrical assists totaling no more than 750 watts and enabling speeds of 20 mph or less on public multi-use pathways in Blaine County.
2023 Wood River Trail Challenge
January 27 – February 28, 2023
Join us for the 2023 Wood River Trail Challenge!
To complete this self-guided challenge, you must ski, walk, snowshoe, or snowbike the entire 32 kilometers of the Wood River Trail, from Hulen Meadows in Ketchum to Gannet Road in Bellevue.
You can tackle the challenge all at once or break up the trail into sections and complete them by February 28.
Finishers will receive a prize from the BCRD and be entered to win a free 2023/24 BCRD Nordic season pass.
Registration is free and a trail pass is not required to participate.
Get Involved
Your valued support brings quality, affordable, accessible recreation to our community. Whether at Galena Lodge, out on our summer and winter trails, at the Aquatic Center, in our youth and adult sports and activities, or at FitWorks fitness center, these critical recreational programs and facilities exist because of the generosity of our supporters.
